In a kitchen without a dedicated space, start by checking the measurements, available connections and how much washing up you need to do. A 60 cm freestanding model is a good fit if you have room for a full-size appliance and larger loads. A 45 cm model takes up less width, while a compact model is better suited to smaller loads. An integrated dishwasher needs a compatible housing unit and space for its door to open. Whatever the size, the external dimensions alone won’t confirm door clearance or installation requirements.
If you want to equip your kitchen without creating a dedicated space, a freestanding model is worth considering. Measure all the available space and check that you have access to water, drainage and a suitable electrical supply before choosing its capacity.
If a 60 cm model won’t fit but a floor-standing appliance is still an option, compare 45 cm models with the amount of washing up you generate between cycles. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a small family using this format may need to run a cycle every day.
A compact model can be a good solution when floor space is limited, provided you have a suitable surface to put it on. Its water supply, drainage and capacity should all suit your plumbing and the dishes you usually wash.
First, make sure an appliance can be installed where you want it. Then choose its capacity and format to suit the loads you need to wash. If your kitchen opens onto your living space, the energy label can also help you check the noise level of the specific model, as ADEME points out.
| What matters | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and connections | Measure the available space with the door open, then check the manual for water, drainage and electrical requirements. In France, Promotelec says a dishwasher socket must be on a dedicated circuit. | I want to install the appliance without refitting the whole kitchen, but first it needs to fit and have the right connections. Around 36 % of consumers put installation suitability first. |
| Everyday capacity | Compare the stated place-setting capacity with your usual plates, pans and glasses, and check the basket layout too. | If I regularly have dishes to wash, I want to avoid loads that are constantly too big for the space available. Capacity is the top priority for around 29 % of consumers. |
| Space taken up | Compare the model’s width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed. For a compact model, check the surface it will sit on too. | In a small kitchen, having enough room to move around or use the worktop matters more to me than a large interior. Around 21 % of consumers prioritise a smaller footprint for this reason. |
| Noise and consumption | On the energy label, compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, eco programme duration and noise level in dB, using the same basis. | If the kitchen opens onto the living area, I want to know how noisy the appliance is and how much it uses before choosing. This is the main concern for around 14 % of consumers. |
A 45 or 60 cm-wide appliance also needs to fit in terms of depth and height, have room for its door to open and allow the hoses to pass through.
Measure the entire space and compare it with the installation diagram for your chosen model before ordering.
Water supply requirements vary by model: Candy says the CP 6E51LS connects directly to the water supply, while some appliances have a water tank. Either way, you’ll need to plan for drainage.
Check the manual for filling instructions, the drainage hose route, clearance requirements and the socket needed.
A slimline or countertop model can save space, but it may not fit your usual plates and pans. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a small family using a 45 cm model may need to run a cycle every day.
Compare a typical load of your dishes with the stated capacity and the model’s interior layout.
Bosch’s documentation lets you check the dimensions of freestanding models and the specifications of individual models before considering an under-counter installation.
Whirlpool’s French-language documentation covers the installation of freestanding and integrated appliances.
Beko’s French range includes slimline freestanding models to consider if a width of 60 cm won’t fit.
Candy offers countertop formats to consider when floor space is limited.
These models suit two different situations: having floor space for a freestanding dishwasher or setting aside a worktop for a compact one. Before choosing a model, compare its stated specifications with your measurements and connections.
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Worth considering if you have floor space for a 60 cm model and need to wash larger loads.
The title lists 14 place settings, 41 dB and an energy rating of C. Check the H4FD641A diagram for door clearance, required space and the connections needed at your chosen location.
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This freestanding model is worth considering if you have 60 cm of floor space and want to wash regular loads.
The title lists 14 place settings and an energy rating of E. Check the D2F HK26 S manual for clearance, door opening space and compatible connections.
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This freestanding model is an option for a kitchen with floor space and larger loads of washing up.
The title lists 14 place settings and 7 programmes. Before planning an under-counter installation, check the dimensions and installation requirements specific to the DW60M6050FS.
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Worth considering if you don’t have room for a floor-standing appliance and usually wash smaller loads.
The title mentions a built-in 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles. The tank doesn’t remove the need for drainage, so also check the surface it will sit on and allow enough room for the door to open.
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This countertop model is worth considering if you have a surface to put it on rather than a space on the floor.
The title lists a built-in 5 L tank, 6+3 programmes and an energy rating of D. Compare the usable capacity with your usual dishes and plan the drainage hose route, even if you use the tank.
Yes. You can consider a freestanding model without an integrated housing unit, as long as the space and connections are suitable. Measure the room it needs with the door open and follow the installation requirements for the model you choose.
It may be suitable if its baskets fit your usual dishes and you’re happy with how often you’ll need to run a cycle. UFC-Que Choisir says 9-place-setting models may need to be run daily in a small family. Above all, check that there’s room for your plates and pans.
Some models have a water tank, but this isn’t a feature of every compact dishwasher. For example, Candy says the CP 6E51LS connects directly to the water supply. Check how the exact model is filled and make sure you can arrange drainage in every case.
Promotelec says a dishwasher socket must be on a dedicated circuit. If your existing installation is old or you’re unsure about it, ask a qualified professional to check that it’s suitable for the appliance.
For dishwashers, ADEME recommends checking energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, capacity and noise information. Also check the eco programme duration. Compare the label figures with how often you plan to use the appliance, but remember that they don’t replace checking the space and connections.